Multi-party/multi-contract disputes

Construction disputes often involve more than two parties. It is common for an employer to enter into a construction contract with a main contractor, who then sub-contracts different parts of the works to a number of sub-contractors. The result is that multiple, interconnected construction contracts are in place between various different parties on one project.

In the event of a dispute, there may be many potential causes of action under the various contracts. A single dispute may involve the employer, the contractor and a number of the sub-contractors, suppliers and consultants.

If all the contracts are subject to the jurisdiction of the court, this is easily managed by the Civil Procedure Rules and the court will ensure all the related claims are joined ('consolidated') into the same proceedings. However, where some or all of the contracts contain an arbitration